Is glycerol a carbohydrate

Subject : Biology

Question:

Is glycerol a carbohydrate?

Expert Verified Solution:

Glycerol is not classified as a carbohydrate. It is a type of alcohol that is involved in various biological processes. In chemistry, carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, typically with a hydrogen-to-oxygen atom ratio of 2:1, such as sugars and starches. Glycerol, on the other hand, has a different structure and is primarily known for its role as a component of lipids (fats and oils) and as a moisturizer in many products. It has three carbon atoms, but its chemical structure and functions are distinct from those of carbohydrates.

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